Alan Eskew, of KansasCity.Royals.MLB.com, reports Kansas City Royals manager Buddy Bell has stated SS Angel Berroa has not secured the starting shortstop job for Opening Day as he is being pushed by infielders Andres Blanco and Alex S. Gonzalez. "First of all, Angel is still our everyday shortstop and Gonzalez and Blanco are pushing him a little bit," Bell said. "Angel is still ahead. That is a decision that more than likely will go down to the end. It is open. We still want Angel to be the shortstop. We still expect him to be the shortstop, but that could change in the next couple of days. He has to play better. He knows that. He wants to play better."

Alan Eskew, of KansasCity.Royals.MLB.com, reports the knee injury suffered by 2B Mark Grudzielanek (knee) that is expected to keep him out for at least the first 10 days of the regular season means either IF Alex S. Gonzalez or SS Andres Blanco has a better chance at making the team as a reserve infielder.

Phillies.MLB.com reports Philadelphia Phillies IF Alex S. Gonzalez announced his retirement Sunday, May 21. "I have decided to retire and open a new chapter in my life," Gonzalez said in a statement. "It has been an excellent ride through the years and I would like to thank the fans who have supported me throughout my career." Gonzalez batted .243 with 137 homers and 536 RBI in his 13-year career.